What is SJLI?

The Social Justice Leadership Institute is a two and a half day institute for mature and emerging student leaders at the University of Oregon who want to advance their vision for an equitable campus environment. SJLI offers a holistic approach to leadership development by fostering a contemplative, creative, and compassionate environment. This approach will offer participants a venue for self-reflection and connection to models and methods for social justice leadership along with practical skills in promoting social justice.

SJLI affirms that ALL of us participate in systems of power and oppression that perpetuate injustice. Though it is not a requirement for SJLI attendees to be experts in these areas, SJLI attendees will be asked to explore their own relationship with these systems and how to work with difference in ways that promote relational, people-centered frameworks for social justice movement building.

SJLI works from the premise that any social justice movement is only as strong as those in it. To this end, grounding and mindfulness activities are woven throughout the curriculum to promote a culture of sustainability. SJLI encourages the development and integration of practices that will positively impact the health and longevity of this new generation of social justice leaders.

SJLI participants will author a collective social justice agenda that is in tune with the UO Diversity Plan and focuses on transforming the UO campus community. The efforts brought forth in SJLI 08' will culminate in a Convening Circle with elders, community members, and supporters who are excited to engage with SJLI participants and their shared vision of the social justice in action.